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When you envision North Carolina’s coast, towering sand dunes probably aren’t in that picture. You’re in for a lovely surprise, however, if you choose to visit Jockey’s Ridge.
Declared a National Natural Landmark in 1974, the dunes were dangerously close to urban development until a local resident planted herself in front of the oncoming bulldozers. The People to Preserve Jockey’s Ridge was formed soon after, and today the park is comprised of 420 pristine, protected acres.
As for the name, it was coined in the 1700s when locals tried to tame wild horses, and spectators used the dunes as bleachers.
– Kristie Coggins, The 100 Companies